Owner of erotic art gallery pledges to sue city

[Times photo | Chris Zuppa]

ST. PETERSBURG-- Business owner Bill Schramm said the city violated his civil rights by raiding his erotic art gallery Friday night.

Schramm, who was arrested Friday (photo) on charges of allowing a nude model in a bar and allegedly touching an officer trying to enter the gallery, said he is closing down his shop on 2501 Central and will instead focus on fighting the city's charges.

Schramm was charged with battery of a law enforcement office and unlawful exposure of private parts. The nude model also was charged.

Police first questioned Schramm after neighbors complained of a large penis statue displayed outside the gallery.

Artist Sam Petty is now selling the supersized penis (photo below) on eBay.com. Bidding starts at $100. Proceeds of the sale will go toward Schramm's legal defense fund.

-Cristina Silva, Times Staff Writer

[Times photo | Willie J. Allen Jr.]